Gary Miller

Mr. GARY G. MILLER of California

Mr. GARY G. MILLER of California. Mr. Chairman, I would like to inquire about a provision in the Committee Report. In title III, describing the Committee's funding priorities for the Department of Energy's Energy, Biomass, Biofuels and Energy Systems program, the report states ``$1 million to support a cost-shared agricultural waste methane power generation facility in California.'' With regard to this California project, I ask the gentleman from Alabama (Mr. Callahan) is it the same effort proposed by the Inland Empire Utilities Agency in cooperation with the dairies located in the Chino Dairy Preserve?

Mr. GARY G. MILLER of California

Mr. GARY G. MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute and honor to the accomplishments of Corporal Valentino Falcon, City of Chino, Officer of the Year 2001. Corporal Falcon joined the Chino Police Department on April 24, 1989. He was promoted to Corporal on September 15, 1996. As Weaponless Defense Instructor, and Assistant Team Leader on the SWAT team, Corporal Falcon has instructed the Citizen Academy participants in gang crimes. He has also addressed the attendees of the California State Parent and Teachers Association on gang crimes and violence in schools. He has generously volunteered to share his expertise by going on Patrol to mentor marginal trainees going through the Field Training Office Program. Corporal Falcon continues to provide support to officers wherever they are assigned. Corporal Falcon currently serves as the President of the Political Action Committee, the Chino Police Department liaison for the Inland Empire Coalition Against Hate Crimes, and is a member of the Inland Valley Robbery/Homicide Investigators Association, the San Bernardino County Gang Violence Suppression Project, and the Inland Empire Gang/ Drug Task Force. Assigned as the case agent in the investigation of the death of Officer Russell Miller, his involvement in developing the effective use of PowerPoint in the closing arguments will become the norm in the near future. His diligence and outstanding professional approach to each case he handles, have gained the respect of other police agencies, and members of the legal community. The exemplary commitment to the Chino Police Department, leadership skills and exceptional civic responsibility demonstrated by Corporal Falcon have truly earned him the recognition as Chino Police Officer of the Year. I sincerely extend my congratulations and thank him for his service to his community.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, just by looking around us at our homes, our offices, our roads and our local infrastructure, we can see that construction has an important impact on our lives. Members of Congress and the public need to better understand the tremendous contribution the construction industry makes to our Nation's economy. The value of construction put in place in the United States for the year 2000 was over $800 billion, about 8.25 percent of the U.S. gross domestic product. Because construction is such an important part of our everyday lives and to bring a pro-construction perspective to Congress, I believed it was necessary to start the Building a Better America Caucus. The purpose of the caucus is to educate Members of Congress and staff on building-related issues that impact our districts and our constituents, from affordable housing to airport construction, to increasing access to training in the construction trades. I urge all of my colleagues to support our Nation's builders by joining the Building a Better America Caucus.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, it is with deep regret that I rise to pay tribute to the former Mayor of Upland, California Bob Nolan. On April 24th of this year, Mr. Nolan passed away, leaving the community he served to grief the loss of a dear friend. The circumstances surrounding Mr. Nolan's death, while unfortunate, speak highly of his dedication to the community he loved. Mr. Nolan had traveled here from Upland, California to serve as San Bernardino County's representative to the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials Conference. Shortly after arriving, Mr. Nolan was hospitalized for an emergency appendectomy. Postoperative complications arose, and Mr. Nolan never left the hospital. Mr. Nolan served his community in many ways. Shortly after graduating from Upland College in 1959, he was hired to teach sixth grade at Sierra Visa Elementary School in Upland. In 1966, he became an assistant principal and was named principal the following year. When he retired in 1988, former students and parents spoke highly of his stern, but well-respected nature. His reputation as an outstanding teacher and principal served as a springboard to a successful election to the Upland City Council in 1984. Always putting the interests of the city first, he worked tirelessly on every action warranting the Council's attention. As a result, it was not surprising when he was chosen to serve as the City's Mayor in 1988. For three terms, his tenacity and competitive spirit inspired both residents and city staff to tackle everything from increasing Metrolink ridership to the development of a Senior Center. Even upon his retirement from the City Council, Mr. Nolan's love for Upland could not be extinguished. He continued to fight for transportation issues and served on numerous regional boards. His commitment to his community was matched only by his devotion to his family. His wife, Nadine, his son, Jeff, and his granddaughter, Lindsey, will most certainly experience a void that was once filled by a loving personality. Mr. Speaker, I ask that this 107th Congress celebrate the life and contributions of Bob Nolan.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Madam Speaker, I had not planned on speaking today but it reminds me of a group of comedians coming forward today, and blaming President Bush for the energy crisis. He has been in office a few months, yet the previous administration, President Clinton, did nothing about our energy problems. We became more reliant on foreign oil. We became more reliant on other products to provide services for our people, rather than providing for ourselves. This Nation has changed dramatically. When I was a child, a person went to turn the light switch on and the lights came on. When they went to fill their gas tank, it was reasonable to fill their gas tank. In those days, we swatted flies and we poisoned rats. Today we set aside habitat for flies and rats. And who pays for it? Private property owners have to pay the price of setting their property aside for some stupid endangered species that some wacko Democratic politician wants to preserve. In the words of the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Traficant), beam me up, too. Both of us need to be out of here. This is crazy. And we talk about big oil. If we had enough oil, we would not have enough energy to provide an argument for these people to complain about. So if we have less oil, they can complain more about Republicans not providing oil. Wake up, America. There is something seriously wrong and it is the Democratic Party, excluding the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Traficant) who has finally learned what real world life is like. Buy America; provide energy; close our borders. It is realistic. Two years ago and three years ago, this body realized there is something wrong with the IRS. In 1913, when we started the Tax Code, it was 11,400 words. The Tax Code today is over 7 million words. In 1914, people voluntarily paid taxes. The government did not force them to pay taxes. They came forward and said our government needs help. We need to pay taxes. 350,000 good Americans paid taxes the first year and the IRS audited every doggone one of those people who paid voluntary taxes. Beam me up again. Now we realize the IRS is out of control. There is a problem with this country, and it is the way people vote. If we want energy, let us provide more oil. If we want gas, let us provide more gas. We have not built a refinery in the United States for 22 years. We have 15 different formularies or 19 formularies required in different States. In California in the L.A. basin, where I come from, we cannot bring gas from Northern California to our area. We cannot bring it from Washington, from Oregon, from Arizona, from Colorado, from Nevada, because it does not meet our standards. So when we have a problem with refineries, guess what? We have no gas; and yet we are more concerned about preserving flies and rats than we are providing energy for the American people that we are supposed to represent. Let me say, people are part of the environment, too, and they are at the top of it as far as I am concerned. If we happen to save a rat in the process of saving a human life, so be it. But if we have to poison that rat to save a human life, as far as I am concerned that rat is in trouble. Last year in California, Fish and Wildlife in October said we need to set habitat aside for the Stevens kangaroo rat, for the gnat catcher and for Longhorn sheep, and they set 2.9 million acres of land aside in California and it looked like a checker board. Now this is not where they live. This is habitat that would sustain those critters. If one does not own habitat, guess what? You own associated habitat. And then we complain that we cannot provide affordable housing for people. What do we want to do? We want to give them a section 8 voucher from the government. When one buys a new house in this country, on average 35 percent of the costs of that house are government fees. Now, you tell a young person they are going to go out and buy a $100,000 home, if they can find one, and $35,000 of the price of that home is fees to the government? Beam me up again, I would say to the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Traficant). Something is seriously wrong with this Nation. Then we say our children cannot afford to live in our communities. We need to change the direction of this country and we need to be more responsible and accountable to the people that we represent. How do working people get helped in this Nation? By everything that can be done to engender the best economic environment for businesses, because when businesses do well, guess what happens? They give their employees raises because they need them. They give them better benefits. They give them more vacation pay. When we create recession because of wacko bureaucratic laws that we pass around here and businesses suffer, guess what they do? They lay people off. People are lucky to work 40 hours a week. They are not surprised if they lose their benefits and have their vacation pay cut. We need to change the direction of this Nation and start representing the good for the American people.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute and honor the accomplishments of Mr. James P. Anderson of Upland, California. Mr. Anderson is the outgoing Chairman of the Board for the City of Upland Chamber of Commerce. According to his peers, Mr. Anderson has demonstrated personal and civic leadership in his role as Chairman and was actively involved in his community. He was always willing to accept multiple tasks and had a vast knowledge and experience in the Chamber's business operations and programs. Mr. Anderson showed great commitment to serving the Chamber and was truly dedicated to serving as Chairman. Besides serving as Chairman of the Board for the Upland Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Anderson is a founding member of the Leadership Connection and an Advisory Council member for the San Bernardino County Community Credit Unions. He is also a past board member of the West End Executive Association and the United Way. Mr. Anderson's tenure as Chairman of the Board of the Upland Chamber of Commerce brought great leadership in the development of strong economic development programs and public policy. He has achieved an impressive record of career and civic accomplishments and, in doing so, has earned the admiration and respect of those who have the privilege of working with him. I would like to congratulate him on these accomplishments and thank him for his service to his community.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, it is with heartfelt joy that I rise to offer my best wishes for the upcoming marriage of Steve Howell and Kyra Fishbeck. Steve Howell has worked in my Capitol Office for approximately a year and a half. During this time, I have witnessed his great love for Kyra. It is obvious to anyone who knows Steve that his bride-to-be, Kyra, is the true joy in his life. On Saturday, Steve and Kyra will take their wedding vows, pledging to love another for the rest of their lives. These are words that should not be uttered lightly or taken without serious thought and consideration. However, I know that Steve and Kyra have prepared for this moment and are anxiously anticipating this special day. Having been married to my lovely bride for 28 years, I know that marriage is a wonderful institution. It is my hope that Steve and Kyra will be a blessing to one another, helpmates in all aspects of life, and forever cognizant of the love they feel today. Mr. Speaker, I ask this 107th Congress to join me in congratulating Steven Howell on having found the woman of his dreams and wishing this young couple a lifetime of happiness together.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, yesterday on rollcall vote 127 I was electronically recorded as voting ``yes'' on H.R. 1885. I intended to vote ``no.''

Mr. GARY G. MILLER of California

Mr. GARY G. MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, the people in the Republic of China on Taiwan will be celebrating President Chen Shui- bian's first anniversary in office on May 20, 2001. President Chen Shui-bian won his presidential election last year and in the last 12 months, he has shown the world his steady leadership at home and abroad. He has continued the social and economic programs of his predecessor and convinced the world of his intention to seek better relations with the Chinese mainland and maintain good relations with allies and friends abroad. He has done an excellent job for the people of Taiwan. Taiwan has become one of our nation's largest trading partners and continues to grow in that capacity to the benefit of both the people of the United States of America and Taiwan. Trade between the United States and Taiwan totaled $64.9 billion in 2000, up 19.4 percent from 1999. Last year, Taiwan's imports from the United States grew by 27.4 percent to $24.2 billion. It is hard to believe that just fifty years ago, the per capita GNP in Taiwan was $150. Today, Taiwan is the world's 17th largest economy and Taiwan's vigorous trade with foreign countries has given the people of Taiwan a much higher standard of living. The great strides Taiwan has made economically are an admirable tribute to Taiwanese people and their democratic leaders. I particularly thank President Chen Shui-bian in continuing to lead Taiwan in that tradition. On his first anniversary in office, I wish President Chen Shui-bian every success in leading his country and his people to ever greater economic heights at home and international recognition abroad. Also, I am delighted to see that as he travels to Central America this month, he will be making a transit stop in New York City. I welcome President Chen to the United States and wish him the best in leading Taiwan in continued prosperity.

Mr. GARY G. MILLER of California

Mr. GARY G. MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Iowa (Chairman Nussle) for this time, and it is a fine job he has done this year. The Members on the Democratic aisle talked about telling the truth. Let us tell the truth. Last year, Republicans proposed a $373 billion tax cut for the American people, and they did not support it. In fact, the President vetoed it, and they upheld his veto. Then they held the budget up till December. Why? Because they wanted to spend more money, and we did. Shamelessly, we did. And that spending increase alone will cost us $572 billion over 10 years. They had no problem spending $572 billion of the people's money, but they could not give those same people the $373 billion tax cut. On average, since 1990, the Federal revenues have grown 9.1 percent each and every year on average. How many of you at home got a 9.1 percent increase in pay every year since 1990? Nobody I know of. My colleagues on that side of the aisle talk about cutting education. The fact is, read the budget. We are spending 11.5 percent more this year on education than we did last year. How many of you at home got an 11.5 percent increase in pay this year? Nobody I know. Every time we set aside funds, the problem is my colleagues do not want to give them back to the people. They want to spend those dollars. We are paying down 100 percent of the debt that we can pay down over 10 years. We can pay no more than is due. We are saying we are going to set aside 100 percent of the Social Security money. We are going to set an additional $300 billion aside to reform Medicare and prescription drugs; yet my colleagues say we are not dealing with the problem. The problem is they want to feed the cow. We tell the cow owner that he deserves more of the revenue from the milk coming from that cow. The problem is we are never going to agree. The facts are very clear. They are in the record as far as the tax cut last year. They are in the record as far as the tax cut this year. We can afford it. The American people earned these dollars. They deserve to spend their dollars. We talk about it is for the children. Why do we not let the American family keep more of their hard-earned money so they can provide for their children. They know the needs of their children. We do not.

Mr. GARY G. MILLER of California

Mr. GARY G. MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, I really enjoyed my friend who spoke last because he said how many Americans know they got a tax cut? The answer is zero, because we have never given them a tax cut. Last year, we came before this body and the leadership who was speaking today talked about our $373 billion tax proposal, and what did our colleagues on the other side say? It is a risky tax scheme. We cannot afford it. It will hurt Social Security, it will destroy Medicare, it will put homeless on the street. Mr. Speaker, it does not matter what we do. My colleagues do not like it. The problem is, my colleagues say we cut education; the budget allows for an 11\1/2\ percent increase in education. That is not rhetoric. That is a fact. Read the budget. When my colleagues talk about people needing to pay energy bills, we have people out there who cannot afford the energy bills. Why? Because we confiscate their money through taxation. What is wrong with changing a punitive Tax Code and letting the American people keep more of their hard-earned money? This budget sets aside 100 percent, 100 percent of the Social Security Trust Fund over 10 years. It is not spent. All of the rhetoric in the world will not spend that money. It says we are going to pay off all of the available debt, $2.4 trillion. That is all we can pay off because that is all that is due. The problem is when we talk about educating children, what about allowing people to keep their own money so they can help educate their own children? It is ridiculous. Our Tax Code builds a wall between people who work for a living and success. And my colleagues say we are just benefiting the rich. Let me tell my colleagues, people work, people go to school to become educated, to better themselves in life; what we have is a situation when people move up the ladder, we confiscate the money through taxation. If my colleagues want to help people, want to help them make their house payment, want to help them make their car payment, want to help them feed their families, try a noble idea, let them keep more of their hard-earned money. I believe the American people know where their money should be spent, but my good friends on the other side of the aisle believe that they know where the money should be spent. There is no limit to how large the government should grow from my colleagues' perspective. This is a reasonable rule, a reasonable budget, and I ask for an aye vote.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Chairman, it is interesting, we talk about education. We in our budget have proposed an increase in education, yet the proposal we have before us today is more mandates for local school districts. It says, when you are through hiring 100,000 teachers, we want you to hire another 100,000 counselors. Well, maybe schools do not want counselors; maybe they need facilities, maybe they need money for special education. Maybe they do need money for counselors, but if they do not, we should not mandate them. What we should do is tell education and the institutions associated with it that, here is the money; they know the needs of their children, they know the names of their children: Educate their children. We have many Members coming before the House as if poor people only come in one color. There are black, white, brown, and red poor people. I know when I was a young man, I was raised by a single mother with my grandparents. We were poor. I remember coming home from school one day driving in a bus in seventh grade, and having the two boys before me, when we were driving on my street, they said, ``Can you imagine anyone having to live on that street?'' I never knew until that day I was poor. When I decided to start a business, I had an old van that used more oil than gas. Every tool I had came in a cardboard box in the back. What did government do? Every time I tried to better myself, they took more of my money. All the Tax Code does today is build a wall between poor people and success and says, ``We are going to hold you down,'' because every time somebody works harder, every time they make more money, we take more money from them as government. We need to allow the working people of this Nation to keep their money, and people in Congress need to realize it is the money belonging to the people who earned it, it is not our money, because government does not earn any money. Some say it is too much of a tax cut, that we want to eliminate the tax cut, we want to use it for new programs that the government thinks are better programs. Then one will say, we need to pay down more debt. Our budget pays down every bit of the available debt that we have over a 10-year period. Members can go beyond that and say, we are going to pay our debt that is not due. First of all, we have to find somebody who wants to allow us to pay off debt that is not due. If we do find those people, I guarantee Members, we will pay a premium to pay off that debt. We need reasonable government, reasonable structure, as the private sector has. We pay our debts as they come due. We are saying we are going to do that, but we want to go farther. We want to tell the American people that they earned their money. We want them to succeed. We want to give them more than lip service. When we tell people they do not deserve a tax cut, we are giving them lip service when it comes to them being successful in life. Let us allow people to succeed. Let us allow people to be entrepreneurs if they want to, to take advantage of the capitalistic system we have out there, a free-market system. If people want to work, want to work harder, let them keep more of their money. Their budget does not do that, our budget does that.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the partnership that has been forged between Los Serranos Country Club in Chino Hills, California, and Los Serranos Elementary School. Jack Kramer, the owner of the Los Serranos Country Club, has committed to donating $10,000 a year over the next 5 years to the Los Serranos Elementary School. The first to participate in the Chino Valley Unified School District's new Adopt-A-School program, Mr. Kramer is demonstrating one way businesses can support their local schools. Mr. Kramer's desire to improve his community is admirable and worthy of praise. As the first business owner to participate in this program, he has set an outstanding example to other business leaders, and his generosity has most certainly set a high standard. However, most noteworthy is Mr. Kramer's reason for participating. His simple statement, ``it's worthwhile,'' says everything about education.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commend the heroic deeds of Eldred Clifford Schroeder, a distinguished World War II veteran. In February of 1943, at the height of World War II, 24-year-old Eldred Clifford Schroeder was drafted into the United States Army, where he was assigned to the 786th Bombardment Squadron in the European theater of operations. He climbed the ranks to become a Technical Sergeant and served as a tail gunner on a B-24 Liberator. After flying 22 successful combat missions, Schroeder and his crew were shot down over France. Fortunately, the French underground rescued him and returned him to England where his leg was treated for shrapnel wounds. He resumed flying, but on his 26th combat mission, he was again shot down over France. This time, German troops found Schroeder, and he was taken as a prisoner of war. He was imprisoned at Stalag Luft One, in Barth, Germany, until the camp was liberated nine months later by the Russian Army in May of 1945. Mr. Schroeder, a distinguished veteran, died in 1968 without receiving the numerous medals and honors he earned. His World War II experience reads like a Hollywood movie, but the bravery he demonstrated in the face of danger was real. Today, I am honored to celebrate the contributions he made to help win the war in Europe, and privileged to present these tokens of a grateful nation to the family of a true American hero. On behalf of the United States Army, I proudly present the Schroeder family an Air Medal with three oak-leaf clusters, a Purple Heart, a POW Medal, an American Campaign Medal, a European, African, Middle-Eastern Campaign Medal, and Honorable Service Lapel Pin, WWII. Mr. Speaker, I ask that this 107th Congress join me in posthumously recognizing a member of our Greatest Generation, Eldred Clifford Schroeder.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commend Lieutenant Junior Grade John G. Rothrock as he receives the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. As a United States Navy Recruiting Liaison Officer, Lieutenant Junior Grade Rothrock is responsible for recruiting Naval Reserve Intelligence Officers. His hard work and dedication has been cited as contributing to the selection of his area as the ``Area of the Year for FY 2000.'' In addition, his peers consider him to be a true team player who leads by example. In addition to his Naval Reserve responsibilities, Lieutenant Junior Grade Rothrock serves as my Chief of Staff. His leadership abilities are evident in the management of both my DC and district offices. Lieutenant Junior Grade Rothrock cares not only about the professional performance of the staff members he directs, but also their personal well-being. This concern has contributed greatly to the stability of my highly motivated staff. Lieutenant Junior Grade Rothrock, despite his youthful age, has already achieved a distinguished career on Capitol Hill. He has served Congressmen Ballenger, Gutknecht, and Pickering, as well as the House Committee on Science. Prior to moving to Washington, DC, his budding political expertise was utilized by several campaigns in his home state of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I ask that this 107th Congress join me in congratulating Lieutenant Junior Grade John Rothrock as he receives the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise to celebrate the Los Angeles School of Make-Up and their contributions to our community. The Los Angeles School of Make-Up, also known as the Make-Up Designory or MUD, has a strong reputation of supporting education and human rights throughout Southern California. The founders of the Make-Up Designory Tate P. Holland, John R. Bailey, and Karl E. Zundel, believe that in order to improve their community, one must be an active participant in it. This believe is realized through their involvement in numerous philanthropic activities and educational partnerships. In addition to serving as educational partners with the Hollywood Entertainment Museum and the Los Angeles County Sheriffs' Juvenile Honors Program, the Make-Up Designory also participates in many local events. Annually, the Make-Up Designory commits to supporting the Kid's Day L.A., KIEV's Special Children's Christmas Program & Party, the Santa Clarita Youth Organization, the Burbank International Children's Film Festival, the Deidre Hall Mother's Day Festival, and the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation Walks. In addition, the Make-Up Designory has actively participated in and donated to many other events, including the CBS ``Running Scared'' Educational Programs, the March of Dimes, the Revlon Run/Walk, the American Cancer Society Walk, the Mesothelioma Applied Research Fund, the Toluca Lake Lion's Charity, the Toluca Lake Garden Club, and the Charter Oak Elementary School Benefit Silent Auction. Despite their many commitments, the Make-Up Designory has also found time to work with the Diamond Bar Sister City Program. Their generosity has permitted an orphaned, indigent high school honors student to continue his education, thus gaining the ability to continue the circle of community service. Moreover, the Make-Up Designory has joined the Diamond Bar Sister City Program in sponsoring a foreign exchange student by granting him a full scholarship. As a result of this scholarship, a gifted student will be able to realize his life-long dream of becoming a professional Make-Up Artist, a highly valuable skill-set in Southern California. Tate P. Holland, John R. Bailey, and Karl E. Zundel continue to demonstrate that when individuals take the time to help others, they better not only individual lives, but our community as a whole. Mr. Speaker, I ask this 107th Congress to join me in offering our praise and accolades to the Make-Up Designory and its founders.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, today I will be introducing the IDEA Full Funding Act of 2001. I would like to thank my 27 colleagues who have already joined me in supporting this important measure. In 1975, the U.S. Congress passed the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, IDEA, mandating that local school districts provide appropriate education to students with special needs. Realizing that this could be a costly endeavor, Congress agreed to fund up to 40 percent of the average per pupil expenditure. However, to date, Congress has only provided States with 14.9 percent of the funds promised. We need to do a better job of keeping the IDEA promise, and I am proposing that we strive to meet this goal. My bill will achieve the 40 percent level in 2011. By steadily increasing funds over the next 10 years, we would demonstrate our commitment to our local school districts and practice fiscal prudence. Mr. Speaker, I invite my colleagues to join me in meeting the IDEA promise.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Sergeant Kyle Thomas, of the Orange County California Sheriff's Department, upon his retirement. Sergeant Thomas began his career in law enforcement in 1958 when he joined the Alameda County Probation Department. He worked there until volunteering to serve in the United States Army in 1962. A distinguished veteran, Sergeant Thomas was an M.P. in Korea. After being honorably discharged, Sergeant Thomas was hired by the North Orange County Marshal's Department in 1966. Only three short months after being hired, Sergeant Thomas was promoted to Deputy II and assigned to Civil Field Services. For 15 years, Sergeant Thomas worked as a Civil Deputy, handling all types of enforcement duties. In January of 1981, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. As a Sergeant, his responsibilities have spanned all aspects of North Orange County's operations. Because of his vast knowledge of civil procedure, Sergeant Thomas has become the Department's resident civil expert. Sergeant Thomas is also an active leader in our community. He is a member of the Latino Peace Officers Association and served as their First Vice President for five years. He has been an active representative for the Association of Deputy Marshal's of Orange County and the State Marshal's Association. In addition to his professional leadership, Sergeant Thomas also takes the time to keep local youth on a winning path. Since 1969, he has volunteered his services to teach Judo and wrestling at the Anaheim YMCA. He has also volunteered as an Orange Youth Soccer League trainer and currently coaches Judo at the Gemini Judo Club in Yorba Linda. A resident of Placentia, California, Sergeant Thomas' retirement will bring more time with his wife of 38 years, Virginia, his two children, and three grandchildren. Sergeant Thomas' exemplary career in law enforcement distinguishes him as a true American hero, worthy of this Congress' praise and gratitude.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to bid farewell to my Legislative Director, John Cusey. I first met John in March of 1996. Immediately, I was struck by his keen sense of political intuitiveness. Although he had only worked on a few local campaigns, I could tell that his future in government would be bright. As an employee, John has excelled in many areas. As a result, he rose quickly through the ranks of legislative positions, and for the next week, he will continue to serve as my Legislative Director. John has staffed numerous bills in the California State Legislature and here in Congress. His assistance in the area of unsolicited e-mail, commonly known as Spam, has been crucial, and led to the passage of California's first law to protect e-mail users. John has also served as my Spokesman and Communications Director. His outstanding communication skills were especially important during my bid for U.S. Congress. On every occasion, he greeted challenging questions with honesty and tact. Over the last five years, I have come to consider John's family as my friends. His wife, Becky, has tolerated the long hours that legislative and campaign work often entail. Moreover, I have seen John grow as a father, welcoming two healthy, beautiful children, Ethan and Ava, into his life. Next week, John will be leaving my office to become the Director of the House Pro-Life Caucus. While I wish him the best of luck in this new endeavor, it is with much sadness. John's absence will create both a professional and personal void in my office. Mr. Speaker, I ask this 107th Congress to join me in recognizing and thanking John Cusey for his hard work and dedication to serving the constituents of California's 41st District and wishing him the best of luck as the Director of the House Pro-Life Caucus.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commend the American Trucking Associations for demonstrating that ``someone cares'' about the Children of San Diego, California. The American Trucking Associations urged all individuals who recently attended their Management Conference and Exhibition in San Diego, California to bring a toy. At the end of the conference, 700 toys were collected and donated to the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Foundation. Encouraged by their initial success, the American Trucking Associations have extended the toy drive via their website. In fact, donors can now contribute to a toy on-line. The toys will be distributed to needy children in the San Diego area through the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Foundation. Since 1947, the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves have ensured a gift under the Christmas tree of children who might otherwise experience the holiday without receiving any toys. Over the past 53 years, the Foundation has grown and is now active in all 50 states. Last year alone, they collected and distributed 13,700,000 toys. America's truckers will most likely deliver the vast majority of Christmas toys to stores around the country. However, this delivery is truly special, as it demonstrates the positive synergy that is achieved when private industry partners with charitable organizations to improve the community. Mr. Speaker, the American Trucking Associations asked their members to ``send a loving message that someone cares'' to the children of the conference host city. Their members responded overwhelmingly, thus deserving the praise and accolades of this 106th Congress for their decision to leave the children of San Diego with a special memory.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, today I honor Ms. Susan Poole, Warden of the California Institution for Women, as she retires after 28 years of outstanding service. Ms. Poole began her career with the State Department of Corrections in 1972. She has served as a Correctional Counselor III, Assistant Transition Coordinator, Program Administrator, Correctional Administrator, Assistant Deputy Director, and Warden. In each of these positions, Ms. Poole has succeeded above and beyond the call of duty. As Warden of the California Institution for Women, Ms. Poole has been responsible for the administration and direction of all department policies. She has focused her attention on improving the internal management of the department as well as its reputation with community organizations. As a result of her leadership, the department was able to set high standards and develop clear goals and strategies which contribute to the mission of California Institution for Women. While striving to meet the high goals of the Institution, Ms. Poole also set high personal goals. After receiving a BA from the University of Redlands, Ms. Poole continued her education through career training and educational programs. She has taken courses in management, women's studies, and prison security. Ms. Poole's hard work and expertise has been recognized by many. In 1983, she was awarded the ``Outstanding Young Women of America'' Award. She is also the recipient of the Leadership Award--Brotherhood Crusade, the James E. Stratten Award for Outstanding Community Service and Dedication to Excellence, and numerous accolades from local government officials. In 1998, she was nominated as California's Warden of the Year, by the North American Association for Wardens and Superintendents. Mr. Speaker, I ask that this 106th Congress join me in recognizing the contributions Ms. Susan Poole has made to the California Corrections Community over her 28 years of dedicated service.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I honor Ms. Donna McPherson, an operations supervisor, at the Pomona, CA, Social Security Administration Office. Ms. McPherson has been with the Social Security Administration since 1989. She began her career with the agency at the Ontario, CA office as a claims representative and was later promoted to her current position of operations supervisor in Pomona, CA. She currently facilitates a variety of Social Security Administration outreach forums and ensures that the work of those under her supervision is completed in a timely and accurate manner. Additionally, she is the direct liaison for congressional inquires. The outstanding work of Ms. McPherson has been recognized by many. She has received the annual Special Act Award numerous times. This award is given to Social Security Administration employees who excel at their duties above and beyond what is required, or accomplish something unique on the job. Ms. McPherson has done both, and as a result, she received this award in 1991, 1993, 1997, and 1999. In addition, she has also received the Performance Award which recognizes a continual commitment to the job and outstanding performance in all areas of the workplace, and the On the Spot Award for her problem-solving skills. When she is not excelling in her responsibilities at the Social Security Administration, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, attending to the numerous cats and dogs under her care, and playing Bunko. Ms. McPherson is also active with her church and devotes much of her time to the women's prayer group. Ms. McPherson's coworkers describe her as hard-working, reliable, dedicated, and most importantly, as a person who goes the extra mile for Social Security clients. Indeed, I have found her to be an invaluable resource. Ms. McPherson takes special consideration to ensure that her correspondence with my office is prompt and frequent, an attribute which serves to greatly assist me in responding to my constituents in an efficient manner. Her knowledge of Social Security policy is immense, and her ability to translate complex, directives into an easy to understand language is remarkable. She often invests personal time and concern in order to ensure each constituent's satisfaction. Ms. Donna McPherson makes government work by cutting through the redtape of bureaucracy one person at a time. Mr. Speaker, I ask that this 106th Congress join me in thanking Ms. McPherson for her dedication and commitment, praising her for a consistent record of hard work, and recognizing her as an asset to the Social Security Administration and the constituents of California's 41st Congressional District.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, this is an interesting debate today. The gentleman from Georgia, a good friend of mine, stood up and asked a simple question: Was the President of the United States in the meeting, and he was attacked when he left the podium, because that is an unreasonable question to ask. Then the gentleman from California, good friend of mine, comes before this honorable body and puts a quote before us about what the President of the United States said, and he was attacked. I would never stand on this floor and accuse the President of the United States of being a liar. Yet, members of his own party did that, because they said he did not mean what he said. Obviously, we would never impugn what the President said in that fashion. Then, the Republican leadership was attacked because they are running this House. Well, let me read to my colleagues from the Hill newspaper, what the Hill newspaper says today: ``Despite President Clinton's pledge to stay here with you and fight for his legislative priorities, not one House Democrat leader was present last weekend for all 7 votes taken on session-ending procedural matters.'' My Democrat colleagues might attack the Republican leadership, they might impugn the Republican leadership; but if it were not for the Republican leadership on this floor, there would be no leadership at all.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, I commend the Inland Empire Utilities Agency of California, as they celebrate 50 years of excellence in water resources and quality management. The Inland Empire Utilities Agency plays an integral part in distributing water, providing wastewater collection, and other utility services for nearly 700,000 people that reside within a 242-square-mile area of Western San Bernardino County. They have eight agency facilities within their jurisdiction that are designed to meet the specific needs of their regional community. Additionally, they have a five member Board of Directors that represents each division. One of the critical aspects to the success of the Inland Empire Utilities Agency has been their ability to keep the lines of communication open. They have done an outstanding job working closely with local, State, and Federal legislators to ensure that California's water needs are being met. Inland Empire Utilities Agency, a quality company that has taken a pro-active role in addressing water issues, is poised to meet the demands of the future. I ask that this 106th congress join me in congratulating the Inland Empire Utilities Agency as they celebrate 50 years of excellence in water resources and quality management.

Mr. GARY MILLER of California

Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, imagine an America where all children receive a world class education and an opportunity to achieve their dreams in a safe school in every community. Imagine an America where the best and brightest teach America's children and every child can read by the third grade. Imagine an America where 95 percent of students graduate from high school and every high school graduate has access to a college education. Mr. Speaker, House Republicans are committed to this vision for our children and making these dreams a reality. Children are America's top priority. Republicans are open to innovation and new solutions to old problems. Republicans have made a solid commitment to education, but the Clinton-Gore administration and Democrats in Congress want the Federal Government to decide what local schools can and cannot do. This is what separates the two parties on education policy. Wake up America. Every child, regardless of family income, deserves a quality education. We need to increase the role of parents in the day- to-day education of their children and decrease the role of Washington. Republicans are committed to securing America's future for our children and grandchildren.